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Thermodynamic optimization and economic analysis of a solar-powered membrane-based humidification-dehumidification desalination system in China

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  • Dong, Chuanshuai
  • Sun, Haowei
  • Zhang, Lizhi

Abstract

Urbanization, industrial growth, and climate change have intensified the global freshwater crisis. Membrane-based humidification-dehumidification (HDH) desalination offers a promising solution for coastal regions, featuring low-temperature operation, renewable energy compatibility, and decentralized deployment capability. This study develops a thermodynamic model of a solar-powered HDH system using hollow fiber membranes and evaluates its performance across 52 coastal cities in China, based on site-specific meteorological data including solar irradiance, ambient temperature, humidity, and seawater temperature. Multi-objective optimization using particle swarm optimization is then conducted to identify optimal operating parameters for different cities. Simulation results indicate that southern cities, particularly in Guangdong and Hainan, face higher freshwater stress but also offer greater freshwater production potential, highlighting the thermal efficiency of solar-powered HDH for mitigating water scarcity in maritime regions. A detailed 20-year economic assessment shows that the unit freshwater cost ranges from $3.39 to $5.43/m3, with payback periods of 2.27–3.59 years and internal rates of return (IRR) between 26.63 % and 43.25 %. Under optimized conditions, Huludao, Tangshan, Jieyang, Zhanjiang, Sanya, and Danzhou achieve further IRR improvements, reaching up to 64.65 %. These results quantify the technical and economic potential of solar-powered HDH systems in China and provide critical benchmarks to guide their large-scale deployment.

Suggested Citation

  • Dong, Chuanshuai & Sun, Haowei & Zhang, Lizhi, 2025. "Thermodynamic optimization and economic analysis of a solar-powered membrane-based humidification-dehumidification desalination system in China," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 337(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:337:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225041313
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.138489
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    References listed on IDEAS

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